Diet products 'are not an easy way to lose weight'

There is no easy way to lose weight, it has been stressed, meaning people up and down the country will have no alternative but to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and stay active in the new year if they want to shed excess fat put on over the Christmas period.

According to a survey by consumer group Which?, 51 per cent of its 2,500 members have bought diet and light-branded foods and drinks in the hope they will help them to slim down.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

However, research conducted by the consumer group suggests products such as Weight Watchers thick sliced white bread and McVitie's Lights digestive biscuits are not as low in calorie, fat and sugar levels as it appears at first glance.

'Just because foods are labelled as light or advertised as diet brands, it doesn't mean that they're the lowest calorie option,' commented Nikki Ratcliff, head of services research at Which?

'Look at other similar products on the shelf - you might find some that don't brand themselves as light actually have fewer calories or less fat or less sugar, so you'd be better off buying them instead.'

Which? also warned recently that more should be done to reduce the exposure of children to adverts promoting unhealthy foods.

The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor - for further information see our Terms and conditions.

Getting healthy just got a whole lot easier

Don't miss out on the latest healthy living news and inspiration direct to your inbox.

Enter your email address:

this is a test error

We will also let you know about discounts and great offers from us, tick this box if you'd rather not know about these.
Hearst Partners would like to let you know about some of their fantastic discounts, special offers, and promotions. We promise you wont be bombarded. Tick here if you would like to receive these.